Salento

Department: Quindio Population: 10,000 Altitude: 1900m Climate: Mild (average temp. 18ºC)

The small town of Salento less than an hour from Armenia lies in a stunningly beautiful area of lush green hills, valleys and coffee plantations, and within hiking distance of jagged mountain peaks. This area, known as El Valle de Cocora, is also home to one of the few regions left where the "Wax Palms" (palmas de cera) grow. They have the distinction of being the world's tallest palm trees and like giant spears pierce the slopes of the valley.

Accommodation

The Plantation House: Calle 7 No. 1-04,  Cel. 3154097039, 3162852603,  website

A fantastic choice for travellers. The Plantation House sits at the edge of town with glorious views over the valley below. It has a cosy feel, big enough in terms of facilities and bed, but still small enough to give the feeling of staying in a house, rather than a full-on backpackers. You'll have at your disposal a huge range of info on the region and the friendly owners can help you to arrange tours. A second plantation House is now open opposite the first. Both are highly recommended.

To find the hostels get off the bus at the firestation (home to an old-fashioned English fire engine). With your back to the firestation walk about 100m up the road/track to your right where you'll find both Plantation Houses on either side of the track.